MId 1800s Carved Shell Cameo of Child in Garden w/Bird in 14K Brooch

This is a beautiful antique carved shell cameo in 14K yellow gold brooch setting that depicts a full figure of a child standing in a garden and holding their arm aloft with a bird on their hand. The child could be either a boy of girl since the habit then was to dress all young children in dresses and keep hair long until around the age of 5. This child has shoulder length wavy hair, and is dressed in a skirted tunic with belt and pantaloons underneath. Square toed shoes complete the outfit. The bird could be a dove or even a hawk, as it is not distinct enough to tell for sure. The background is carved with a suggestion of foliage and flowers. The child is standing on grass. The setting is unmarked but tests positive for gold content of at least 14K and less than 18K. The pin stem is not gold. The reverse side has an old fashioned T hinged pin stem and simple C clasp.

This cameo brooch weighs 15.5 gr. It measures 2.25" x 1.75".

Condition is good. There are naturally occurring age lines in the cameo visible when back lit, but no cracks. There is a little age related surface wear that slightly softens the sharpness of details.

This is a delightful cameo with unusual subject matter, well carved and very appealing. The original gold setting is snugly fitted to the cameo and sets it off well.

Item ID:A13cmb513

Offers considered, except on Red Tag sale items and on items with final reductions.